Christmas came early at the Southpark Mall in Strongsville Wednesday! Santa Claus made a rare summertime appearance as did Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and The Salvation Army's own Captain Care; all were in attendance for The Salvation Army's Official "Christmas in July" Campaign kick-off event.

Hundreds joined in on the fun as The Salvation Army brought out their red kettles to celebrate "Christmas in July" a mid-year fundraising and public awareness campaign aimed at reminding the public that their support is needed year round in order to continue providing critical life sustaining services.

Major Lurlene Kay Johnson, Divisional Secretary for The Salvation Army, said "the campaign goal is to raise $270,000 by September 30, 2011 by appealing to those in the community to help support The Salvation Army allowing us to continue to "do the most good" daily!"

Several events are planned in accordance with the "Christmas in July" initiative including celebrity bell ringers, a parachute jump, the Singing Angels concert, and much more!